What is a PNG file?
PNG is a lossless image format: it stores every pixel exactly and supports full transparency. It's the usual choice for screenshots, logos and graphics with sharp edges or text.
- Full name
- Portable Network Graphics
- File extensions
- .png
- MIME type
- image/png
- Type
- Raster image
- Compression
- Lossless
- Transparency
- Yes
- Animation
- No
- Format Hero support
- Convert from and to
What PNG is used for
Screenshots, logos, icons, diagrams, interface graphics and any image that needs a transparent background or crisp text.
Strengths
Lossless quality, smooth transparency with soft edges and shadows, and support everywhere. Text and hard edges stay perfectly sharp.
Weaknesses
Photos stored as PNG are large, often several times the size of a JPG of the same picture. Animation needs the less common APNG variant.
Compatibility
Every browser, operating system and image editor supports PNG, and almost every upload form accepts it.
Convert PNG to another format
Convert other formats to PNG
Questions
How do I open a PNG file?
Double-click it. Every operating system, browser and image editor opens PNG.
Is PNG lossy or lossless?
PNG is lossless: every pixel is stored exactly.
Does PNG support transparency?
Yes. PNG supports full transparency, including soft edges and shadows.
Can I convert PNG files without uploading them?
Yes. Format Hero converts PNG files in your browser, on your own device, so they're never sent to a server. It's free, needs no sign-up and adds no watermark.